Obs. [ad. L. benevolentia: see prec. and -ENCY.] The quality of being benevolent; also concr. a gift of money, a ‘benevolence.’
1540. Raynald, Birth Man. (1634), Prol. 7. The benevolencie and willing fauour of all.
1698. Norris, Pract. Disc., IV. 340. They retrench their Expenses, and withdraw their wonted Benevolencies.
1766. Hist. Europe, in Ann. Reg., 38/1. The body of the Clergy, till very late taxed themselves and granted to the King benevolencies.
